In short: WOW!In full: What fun! Don't go expecting a quick time! I thought the race was good value for money and very well marshalled. It was a bit weird not having a start or finish sign and I thought it was a shame as I had to queue for 20 mins to get in the stream. Lovely views from the top of the hill. Might do it again next year, not sure yet!Date of review: November 14, 2005

In short: Sheer lunacy, maximum potential for a personal worst, in short 'brilliant'.In full: For me, this was a challenge rather than a race, and it more than lived up to expectations. Sub-consciously, I felt it might have been over-hyped, but don't be fooled - it's as difficult as everyone says, but by the same token, it's also as enjoyable as everyone says. Many thanks to all the organisers and to the marshalls, especially for their kind words of encouragement as we slogged around. Hope to be back again next year.Date of review: November 14, 2005

In short: Fun! Fun! Fun! Well done Bitton Road RunnersIn full: 3rd time I've done this "race" now and I've been slower each year, but unless you are close to the front there is no way you can set a fast time (or if you by-pass the ditch) Great variety of terrain and wonderful views to admire whilst catching your breath.Don't take it too seriously and have a laugh - what else would you normally do on a Sunday?

In short: Mud, guts and glory!In full: Mud, guts and glory. Sloshier mud than last year, but lots more wet stuff to fall into. My washing machine sighs heavily when it sees my kit from the race...Date of review: November 14, 2005

In short: As a mud virgin I'd now say this is a must for everyones calander - just go out and enjoy the mud and atmosphere - brilliant !!In full: As a mud virgin this was a fantastic run, sunny, loads of mud, balance of hills & rivers was good. developed technique of slidding down hills on my bum -so much quicker than carefully checking your footing. Swimming and wadding sections were wet & cold but atmosphere was brill. There were loads of marshals so no going off in the wrong direction and all very encouraging. Wait to get into and through the ditch took 25mins and feet became ice blocks for a while. I did my first half marathon last month but this took me longer but was double the fun !!Date of review: November 14, 2005

In short: An absolute hoot! Don't do it for speed - do it for the love of mud!In full: I did this for the first time (and as my first cx) in 2003 when we'd had that long, hot dry summer..... Great, I thought - I just need to practice my hills a bit for next time and I'll be fine.... HA! 2005 has proved to be my first proper xc! The mud, the water, the cow poo! What fun! I just had the best - if knackering - time. I'll definately be back for more next year! Date of review: November 14, 2005